Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival a fall tradition
More than 170 exhibitors participating in weekend event
Ball’s Falls will again offer a mix of arts, entertainment and more over the Thanksgiving weekend.
The 44th annual Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival will take place today to Monday, with more than 170 artisans, farmers, musicians and exhibitors packing the grounds of Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, 3292 Sixth Ave. in Jordan, for what Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority said will be another family friendly celebration.
“We really want the weekend to be for the entire family,” said NPCA communications specialist Erika Navarro.
“You can spend your weekend at the festival. We don’t have the turkey dinner, but we offer you the chance to learn about the ecology and history of Ball's Falls and enjoy entertainment, food, beverages and more.
“People love the event and are excited to enjoy the tradition,” Navarro said of the event, which originally started as a one-day celebration but has grown immensely over the last 44 years.
There are more than 170 vendors expected for the event, which features an eclectic mix of arts and crafts, local wine, craft beer, a farmers market and food vendors, as well as a variety of entertainment all weekend long. That’s not to mention the scenery and history of the site.
“Whether you want to get a start to holiday shopping, enjoy some local food and drink, or some of the entertainment, there is really something for everyone.”
This year’s entertainment lineup will feature country, rock, blues, folk and more, with performances by Cabaret Quicksand, Brad Battle Band, Dan Badger, Barbara Lynn Doran, Katey Gatta and more. There are kids entertainers, including Scoop McCoy the magician, along with other attractions such as pony rides, face painting and inflatables.
Guests will also be able to travel back in time to the 1800s at the Ball’s Falls Historical Village, with blacksmithing and handweavers and spinners demonstrations, as well as tours of the original Ball Family home, historical church and grist mill.
The event is a major fundraiser for NPCA, with revenues directed to Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, and the organization’s various conservation, recreation and education programs and projects.
The festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $6 per adult and children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. A special rate of $4 will be offered to seniors on Friday. Parking is available on-site, adjacent to the festival on a portion of the property near Glen Road.
For complete festival details, visit www.thanksgivingfestival.ca.